Derby County FC’s Chairman Mel Morris has turned to the advice of two of Derby’s leading professional service firms to complete the purchase of the Championship club.
Corporate lawyers based at the Derby office of Geldards joined forces with Accountants and Business Advisors Smith Cooper to help Mr Morris complete his acquisition of the club from North American Derby Partners for an undisclosed sum.
Recognised as one of UK’s top serial Tech entrepreneurs, Mr Morris has used the services of both Geldards and Smith Cooper on many of his previous and current business ventures, often involving web-based companies.
Debra Martin, corporate partner at Geldards, led the firm’s legal advice to Mr Morris on the takeover and explained: “We’ve had a close working relationship with Mel for a number of years and we were well aware of how important the takeover was to him. With Mel’s leadership we hope that the club can continue to go from strength to strength as it looks to secure a place in the Premier League.”
“The fact that Mel continues to choose to work with professional service firms based locally in Derby, rather than city-based institutions, reflects the high level of professional expertise in our area.”
Geldards and Smith Cooper initially provided advice to Mr Morris on his investment in the club in May 2014 when he took a 22 per cent shareholding. The acquisition process began a year later when he assumed the role of Club Chairman.
Andrew Delve, of Smith Cooper, who has acted for Mel Morris for in excess of 20 years, commented: “It’s always a privilege to work with Mel, but this transaction has carried additional excitement due to both its local significance and my own affection for Derby County. Mel is a businessman of the highest calibre and his purchase of Derby County brings together his passion for both business and football, the result of which can only be a good thing for the Club, fans and businesses of Derby.”
Mr Morris, who now becomes the club’s sole owner, added: “Whilst I firmly believe that the club’s ownership is very much a tertiary concern to most fans, I hope together we can help steer this club back into a sustainable place in the Premier League.
“I’d like to thank Geldards and Smith Cooper for the advice I received throughout the acquisition process. The expert advice, project management, and leadership they provided throughout this process was invaluable, allowing for the seamless transition in the running of the club.”
